While some of the information in this post was consolidated from other sources, throughout my years as a trainer, I have been teaching these principles. This list is by no means exhaustive, but it definitely encapsulates a lot of what I think as it relates to self defense and tactical training. With a wealth of information out there, you need to be careful about your choices.
As you seek out self defense instruction, remember these principles:
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Most of what you see on TV and movies is not reality. I know…hard to believe.
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Nothing about a street fight is pretty. It’s down and dirty. There are no rules.
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Many martial arts systems are conditioning you to do things that are not safe in the real world. These systems provide you with a false sense of security, in part, based on a cooperative training partner.
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You should train in the attire / gear you normally wear. Rarely will you find yourself in a martial arts uniform and barefoot out in public.
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Standing your ground and going toe to toe with someone is your least desirable option.
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Competition fighting is different from real life fighting.
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There is no such thing as a fair fight.
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We live in a world where people may be armed with a variety of weapons…You need to know how to use and defend yourself with a variety of weapons.
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Expect your attacker to be bigger and stronger than you. If they are not, then they are most likely armed.
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You have just as much right to learn how to protect yourself as our law enforcement and military does. You should not be restricted in what you can learn.
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Your time is valuable…Many people don’t have time or desire to spent countless hours practicing complex martial arts everyday. Techniques should be easy enough to master in a short amount of time.
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Keep it simple…Given your body’s response to stress because of the adrenaline dump, fine motor skills are diminished. Your training and techniques should account for this.
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If a smaller person cannot defend themselves from a larger attacker with a given technique, it may not be worth practicing.
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You have the natural right to carry a concealed weapon for self defense…Choose a reliable knife / gun from a reputable manufacturer. Don’t violate the KISS principle.
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Your fitness level makes a difference to your overall self defense…Drop that extra weight now!
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Physical techniques and mental rehearsal go hand in hand.
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Learn the basics…Build muscle memory, then improvise, adapt, and overcome.
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There are many ways to approach complex problems, some better than others. You are learning just one of those ways.
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One of the most important aspects of self defense is situational awareness.
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Fear is your body’s natural response to a given situation that does not seem right. Your body is telling you to get out of there. Don’t let political correctness overrule your natural instinct for self preservation.
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Leave your ego at the door. There is always someone out there who is bigger, faster, and stronger.
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No one instructor has all the answers.